Introducing the brain: it anticipates senses (Introduction)

DAVID: This does not show that the brain is in charge of us. It shows that the brain sets up networks to help us by anticipating the next step in the sensory process. This is built into the brain's designed activity.

dhw: But it does not show us that the brain is NOT in charge of us. It merely tells us that there are different forms of interaction either between the brain and the so-called soul (dualism), or between different parts of the brain if one believes that the brain is the source of thought (materialism).

DAVID: But as I view my use of the brain, it seems to me I introduce my thoughts, just as I purposely answered you by creating this sentence. Since I use my brain as I wish, I have free will.

dhw: We have covered this in great detail during our discussions on materialism versus dualism. As a dualist, you like to separate your “I” into material brain and immaterial soul. Materialists believe that the “I” which “introduces” your thoughts is also the product of your materials.